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New Web Tool Explores Drought In Colorado River Basin

An interactive website launched by the federal government explores 16 years of drought in the Colorado River Basin.

The website compiles real-time data on drought conditions and water supply. Viewers can explore interactive charts and images that show changing conditions on the Colorado River.

The U.S. Geological Survey and U.S. Bureau of Reclamation developed the tool as part of an initiative to find and share information on water.  

The agencies report the current drought is the worst one in a century. Reservoirs have declined to about half capacity, and officials say Arizona could see its first water cutbacks as early as 2017.

Drought Conditions In The Western U.S.: 2000-15

Map Of The Colorado River Basin

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Melissa Sevigny is a reporter at KNAU in Flagstaff.